Latest Corporate News News
World Markets Hit Records on AI Optimism
Benchmarks in Britain and South Korea reached records as shares rose across Asia and Europe, driven by AI demand for chips and data centers. FTSE 100 jumped 1% to 10,033.94, Kospi up 2.3% with Samsung Electronics gaining 7.2%, and Hang Seng rose 2.8%. Strong corporate profits and Fed rate cuts supported the upbeat start to 2026.
OceanFirst to Acquire Flushing Financial in $579M Deal
OceanFirst Financial announced a $579 million all-stock merger with Flushing Financial, merging Flushing Bank into OceanFirst Bank, expected to close Q2 2026. The deal expands presence in New York markets, creating $23B in assets; Warburg Pincus invests $225M equity. Post-merger ownership: OceanFirst 58%, Flushing 30%, Warburg 12%.
First Financial Completes BankFinancial Acquisition
First Financial Bancorp closed its all-stock acquisition of Chicago-based BankFinancial, adding 18 financial centers and $22B in assets total. BankFinancial locations operate under current name until June 2026 conversion. This boosts Midwest growth including Chicago commercial lending.
Baidu Plans Spin-Off of AI Chip Unit Kunlunxin
Baidu jumped 9.4% after announcing plans to spin off its AI computer chip unit Kunlunxin for Hong Kong listing in early 2027, subject to approvals. The move fueled Hong Kong's Hang Seng 2.8% rally alongside Alibaba's 4.3% gain. AI optimism drove broader tech surges.
Samsung Electronics Leads South Korea Kospi Record
South Korea’s Kospi hit 4,309.63 record, up 2.3%, led by Samsung Electronics soaring 7.2% and SK Hynix gaining 4% on AI chip demand. Markets in Tokyo and Shanghai closed. AI infrastructure expectations boosted tech heavyweights.
Equity Bancshares Completes Merger with Frontier Bank
Equity Bancshares (NYSE:EQBK) completed its merger with Frontier Holdings, parent of Frontier Bank, effective January 1, 2026, entering Nebraska market. The deal expands Equity's regional footprint.
MetLife Closes Acquisition of PineBridge Investments
MetLife Investment Management acquired PineBridge Investments, combining to manage $734.7B in assets with global focus, especially Asia. Acquisition aligns with MetLife's New Frontier growth strategy, excluding private equity and China JV. More than half of assets from non-U.S. investors.
Rayonier Schedules Shareholder Vote on PotlatchDeltic Merger
Rayonier Inc. set January 27 special meeting for merger-of-equals vote with PotlatchDeltic Corp., aiming for Q1 2026 close and Atlanta HQ move. Deal follows June negotiations after Rayonier's New Zealand timber sale. Both companies hold concurrent votes.
Michelin Announces Acquisitions of Cooley Group and Tex Tech
Michelin reached agreements to acquire Cooley Group (industrial coated fabrics) and Tex Tech Industries to reinforce its Polymer Composite Solutions business. Deals announced over past two months. Aims to enhance materials capabilities.
Permira and Warburg Pincus to Acquire Clearwater Analytics
Permira and Warburg Pincus agreed to acquire Clearwater Analytics, with a 'go-shop' period until January 23, 2026, for alternative bids. Targets investment management software provider. Merger agreement in place.
Comply365 Acquires MINT Software Systems
Comply365 announced acquisition of aviation training management provider MINT Software Systems to expand offerings. Strengthens position in aviation software solutions.
Alibaba Climbs on Tech Rally in Hong Kong
E-commerce giant Alibaba rose 4.3% amid Hang Seng's 2.8% jump, part of broad AI-driven tech rally in Asia. Contributed to upbeat market start amid global AI optimism.